Burglar shot in buttocks with bow and arrow in Australia

A burglar who tried to steal a car in Australia got more than he bargained for when he was shot in the buttocks with an arrow by the archery enthusiast owner.

Police said the hapless thief broke into the man's Sydney house on Sunday evening and took cash before grabbing the keys to his car.

The proprietor, who was at home at the time with his wife, confronted the thief in the garage as he tried to reverse the vehicle and make a getaway.

After the 68-year-old armed himself with his bow, the intruder opted to get out of the car and make a run for it, jumping a fence.

"As he ran away, the male resident stood up on the fence and shot the fleeing man using the compound bow and arrow, hitting him in the buttocks or lower back area," New South Wales police said.

Despite apparently taking a hit, the man escaped and no trace has been seen of him since.

Police seized the bow and arrow as part of their investigation.

Detective Inspector Dean Johnstone said police were still hunting for the intruder, described as a short male of Caucasian appearance, 30 to 35 years old, with dark hair, olive skin and a tattoo on the left arm above the elbow.

Police said that they were also investigating the circumstances in which the arrow was fired.

"At this point in time we have been given information by the homeowner, police have attempted to speak to him," Mr Johnstone said.

"He's maintained his right to silence, this is a matter we'll investigate."

The bow and arrow are not prohibited weapons in Australia, but Detective Inspector Johnstone suggested there was a possibility the man could face charges, ABC reports.

"The owner is part of an archery club and takes part in that sport," he said.

"This is very early days in the investigation but … we are investigating all facets of the incident."

The detective advised people not to confront intruders and let police investigate.

"My advice to people would be to comply with [the intruder], not to confront them, certainly not to engage them in a physical altercation, let them go and let us investigate," he said.

They are currently looking for the offender, who was wearing a black coloured short sleeved shirt. Police have asked medical professional to to look out for anyone with unusual injuries.